At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team as a Trade Sales and Service Apprentice and gain hands-on experience.
- Company: Howdens, a leading UK apprenticeship employer with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Earn £16,686, enjoy paid holidays, and receive generous staff discounts.
- Other info: Opportunities for career progression and support from mentors throughout your apprenticeship.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career with structured training and real impact in a fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: Eager learners with strong communication skills and a proactive attitude are welcome.
The predicted salary is between 16686 - 16686 € per year.
Join Howdens as a Trade Sales and Service Apprentice and kickstart your career. At Howdens, we’re proud to be one of the UK’s leading apprenticeship employers. With a long-standing commitment to developing talent, we've been recognised among the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers since 2022. Our apprentices don’t just do a job - they build lasting careers.
We’re looking for enthusiastic, proactive people to join our apprenticeship programme and become an integral part of our depot teams. As a Trade Sales and Service Apprentice, you’ll follow a structured development programme that combines practical depot experience with high-quality off-the-job training delivered by an approved apprenticeship training provider. This 12–15 month apprenticeship will give you hands-on experience across key areas of our depot, including customer service at the trade counter, sales and business development, stock control, and kitchen planning.
As a Trade Sales and Service Apprentice, you will be supported throughout by your Depot Manager, a dedicated mentor, and our in-house Learning and Development team – ensuring you grow in confidence and capability every step of the way.
What You’ll Gain
- Learn how to deliver exceptional service and build strong relationships with trade customers both in person and over the phone.
- Build skills in serving and selling to customers on the trade counter, and ensuring customers receive their products in a timely and efficient manner.
- Gain product knowledge and develop the ability to advise customers on our kitchen, bedroom and joinery ranges, identifying new sales opportunities, and helping to drive the growth of the depot.
- Learn the principles of stock control and warehousing, ensuring stock levels are accurately maintained, and following all health and safety regulations.
- Grow your confidence and communication skills as part of a close-knit team in a fast-paced depot environment.
- Be supported to complete your Level 2 Trade Supplier Apprenticeship, including English and Maths if required.
Future Career Pathways
Completing this apprenticeship opens doors to a variety of career opportunities across Howdens, with in-house Learning and Development programmes to support your progression. Many of our past apprentices have progressed into roles such as:
- Trade Counter Salesperson
- Business Developer
- Kitchen Sales Designer
- Depot Management Roles
What We’re Looking For
We’re seeking people who are excited to learn, eager to get involved, and ready to start their career. Ideally, you’ll have:
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to doing things well.
- Great communication skills and a customer-focused mindset.
- A proactive attitude with the ability to work independently and use your initiative.
- Good organisation and time management.
- A genuine interest in developing your skills and growing your career.
- The right to work in the UK.
The Apprenticeship Programme
- Apprenticeship Standard: Level 2 Trade Supplier
- Duration: Typically 12–15 months (including End Point Assessment)
- Training: A mix of on-the-job experience and off-the-job learning
- Support: From a mentor, depot team, learning and development team and external apprenticeship training provider
- Qualifications: Functional Skills in English and Maths (if needed)
Rewards and Benefits
- £16,686 annual salary
- Paid holiday entitlement
- A matched contribution pension scheme
- Team incentives and social events
- Generous staff discount on Howdens products
About Howdens
Howdens Joinery is the UK’s number one trade kitchen supplier, trusted by over 460,000 trade professionals. With more than 900 depots and a growing presence across Europe, we’re a business built on entrepreneurial spirit and strong local relationships. At Howdens, we’re committed to being worthwhile for all concerned. We aim to create an inclusive and supportive workplace where everyone can thrive. If you need any adjustments to our recruitment process, just email apprenticeships@howdens.com with the job title and location, and we’ll be happy to help.
Trade Sales and Service Apprentice - Hornchurch Depot employer: Howdens
Howdens is an exceptional employer, renowned for its commitment to nurturing talent through structured apprenticeship programmes. As a Trade Sales and Service Apprentice at our Hornchurch Depot, you will benefit from hands-on experience, dedicated mentorship, and a supportive work culture that prioritises your growth and development. With competitive salaries, generous staff discounts, and a focus on career progression, Howdens offers a rewarding environment where you can build a lasting career in the thriving trade kitchen industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trade Sales and Service Apprentice - Hornchurch Depot
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Howdens. Understand their values, products, and what makes them tick. This will help you connect with the interviewers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Grab a friend or family member and do some mock interviews. Focus on common questions like why you want to join Howdens and what skills you bring to the table. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll perform when it counts.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your enthusiasm! When you're chatting with the team, let your passion for learning and growing shine through. Talk about how excited you are to dive into the apprenticeship and contribute to the depot's success. A positive attitude can go a long way!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, shoot a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a nice touch that shows you’re keen and professional. Plus, it keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Trade Sales and Service Apprentice - Hornchurch Depot
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Enthusiasm:When writing your application, let your excitement shine through! We want to see that you're eager to learn and ready to dive into the world of trade sales. A bit of personality goes a long way!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application for the Trade Sales and Service Apprentice role. Highlight any relevant experience or skills that match what we’re looking for, like customer service or teamwork.
Keep It Clear and Concise:We appreciate a well-structured application. Keep your sentences clear and to the point, and make sure to proofread for any typos. A tidy application reflects your attention to detail!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the apprenticeship programme there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Howdens
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you research Howdens and their apprenticeship programme. Understand their values, products, and what makes them a top employer. This will show your enthusiasm and help you answer questions more confidently.
✨Show Off Your Skills
Think about examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your attention to detail, communication skills, and proactive attitude. Be ready to share specific instances where you've excelled in customer service or teamwork, as these are key for the role.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare a few thoughtful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the training process, team dynamics, or future career opportunities. It shows you're genuinely interested and engaged in the role.
✨Dress the Part
While Howdens has a friendly atmosphere, it's still important to dress smartly for your interview. Aim for a professional look that reflects your seriousness about the opportunity, while still being comfortable enough to express yourself.
